What was your first job as a journalist?
I was a theater critic for a local NY paper. And a columnist at The Soho Weekly News.
Have you ever used a typewriter?
Ha! In the very early part of my career. I remember white out horrors all the time.
How is social media changing news?
The Facebook political manipulation terrifies me. However, I LOVE sharing news/opinion stories with like minded followers. I learn a ton.
Who's your favorite fictional journalist?
I do love Bert Lancaster in "Sweet Smell of Success." I've always loved Brenda Starr. And Anne Hathaway in "Devil Wears Prada."
What does it mean to be a journalist?
Everything: seeing the world through stories. Using imagination to filter reality. Having a voice. Learning. Growing. Thinking. Rewriting!!!
What's the funniest news-related #hashtag you've seen?
I like the ones I write! .
How do you prefer to be pitched on stories?
Email is best.
What tools and software do you use to do your job?
The Daily Beast . New Yorker . WSJ
What's your favorite social network?
It was Facebook, because it's a great space for writers to spout off. Then Zuckerberg helped Trump win, so I switched my focus to Instagram.
Who do you wish followed you?
David Remnick . David Sedaris . Maureen Dowd . Peggy Noonan
Why did you become a journalist?
To learn. Period, end.
Did you work for your high school newspaper? If so, what did you do there?
YES. I was the editor in chief. In college, I was also the editor in chief of our newspaper.
What story are you most proud of writing or working on?
I suppose the one I won an award for, Red Carpet Wars in the Hollywood Reporter - a first person essay on the Oscars. A lot of memories there
What advice can you offer to aspiring journalists?
Create your own outlet - blog, online magazine. Don't depend on outlets, they're shrinking. And ALWAYS use your authentic voice.
When's the best time to pitch you?
Anytime in an email.
What's the best pitch you ever got?
"Are you sitting down? You should be."
What's the worst pitch you ever got?
Several that I knew other journalists had already gotten. OR - "We'd love to give this to you, but you have to share it with (other outlet)
What's your favorite drink?
A gorgeous California Chardonnay like J.Lohr, or in winter, their Pinot Noir. I'm a wine enthusiast - and purist.
When you're not at a computer, where are you most likely to be?
In bed, reading. Watching "Game of Thrones." Hiking. Walking beach with my boyfriend. Riding a bike anywhere. Listening to music. Cooking!!
Aside from your own, what's your favorite publication to read?
The New York Times
What's the most common misperception about your beat?
In fashion, that all fashion people are mindless. Only SOME of them are. And in entertainment, that actors are stupid. Only some of them are
